Netanyahu Says Israel Should Phase Out U.S. Military Aid

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel should reduce its dependence on U.S. military support. He added that the country should bring that aid down to zero over the next decade. Israel currently receives about 3.8 billion dollars a year in U.S. military aid. The existing aid package runs from 2018 to 2028 and carries a total value of 38 billion dollars.

Netanyahu argued that the time is right for this transition. He stressed that Israel should begin the process now instead of waiting for the next Congress. He also described the move as an absolute priority. According to Netanyahu, Israel must become stronger on its own feet and rely less on American financial support.

The proposal comes during a period of growing political strain in the United States over support for Israel. Debate surrounding the Gaza war has intensified since October 2023. A Pew survey found that 60 percent of U.S. adults viewed Israel unfavorably.

Netanyahu’s remarks suggest Israel may now be preparing for a future with greater military self-reliance. Whether that vision becomes reality will depend on regional conflicts, domestic politics and the strength of U.S.-Israel relations in the years ahead.

Gaza, Iran and Gulf Ties Frame Netanyahu’s Message

Benjamin Netanyahu has outlined a long-term strategic shift in which Israel aims for greater military self-reliance over the next decade and reduced dependence on U.S. military support. He linked this approach to three key pressures: the ongoing Gaza war, rising tensions with Iran, and Israel’s expanding ties with Gulf states. Netanyahu suggested that a weakened Iranian regime could reduce support for groups such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis, although he noted that this outcome is uncertain. He avoided giving any timeline for Iran or entering into detailed military planning.

At the same time, Netanyahu emphasized deeper regional cooperation with Gulf countries, particularly in energy, artificial intelligence, and quantum technology. He said these partnerships could strengthen Israel’s independence through diplomacy, economic ties, and defense capabilities. He also warned about the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, which carries nearly 20% of global oil, noting that any disruption could impact global markets, raise fuel prices, and add inflationary pressure. Overall, his remarks signal a broader effort to reposition Israel’s security strategy and alliances amid the Gaza conflict, tensions with Iran, and evolving relations with the United States and Arab partners.

Web resources on Netanyahu Says Israel Should Phase Out U.S. Military Aid

1. Reuters.com: Netanyahu wants to wean Israel off US military support, he tells CBS.
2. Bloomberg.com : Netanyahu Says Israel Should Phase Out US Military Aid Over Next Decade.
3. Guardian.com : No more US military aid to Israel.